Turning Points: 2012 CFDA Fashion Awards Nominees

Even unbridled talent has to be fostered to find its way to greatness. It's a fact that remains true for the many bold names that will be recognized at the 2012 Council of Fashion Designers of America Awards Monday evening. Here, BAZAAR remembers when this year's noms took their unique career-defining shifts.

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen for The Row, Womenswear Designer of the Year

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen for The Row, Womenswear Designer of the Year

Turning Point: Making their debut runway show low-key and highly exclusive, designers Mary-Kate and Ashley eschewed celebrity designer reputations and focused the attention on their precise collection of all black, navy and white pieces for Fall 2010.

Jack McCollough & Lazaro Hernandez for Proenza Schouler, Womenswear Designer of the Year

Jack McCollough & Lazaro Hernandez for Proenza Schouler, Womenswear Designer of the Year

Turning Point: It's no secret that the duo's senior thesis for Parsons was famously scooped up entirely by Barneys New York in 2002. That kind of nod from the fashion establishment goes unprecedented and secured a name for Proenza Schouler in the retail game.